Starting college and leaving home for the first time can be both exciting and daunting.
The First Nations Metis and Inuit Services at Lethbridge College helps FNMI students transition into school life with various programs addressing academic, cultural and spiritual well being.
The FNMI student lounge brings together many different tribes from the area. For many of these students, it’s their first time away from home.
FNMI Student Advisor, Marcia Black Water is the first contact many of these students encounter at Lethbridge College. Black Water, a member of the Blood Tribe, says the FNMI services are unique.
“We have it set up so that it’s like a home away from home for the students.”
She added that they want to ensure FNMI students at Lethrbridge College are successful.
“This is also a space where both FNMI and non FNMI students can come together.”
Creating that home away from home felling is one of the main services that the First Nations Metis and Inuit Student Association are there to provide. This includes access to Blackfoot elder Peter Weasel Moccasin.
An essential part of FNMI culture is being able to speak to elders. Many times students need to hear the kind voice of encouragement from the elders. Weasel Moccasin is happy to speak to young people.
“I can listen to whatever they need to talk about. They can express themselves privately or openly, it’s up to them. That’s my role, I enjoy what I do.”
Second year student Melanie Healy credits Weasel Moccasin with improving her college experience.
“On the days when I just felt like quitting or giving up on my program, I would sit with him and have a heart-to-heart conversation.”
“That’s really part of the FNMI Program that really encouraged me to keep going.” The FNMI program also provides help with scholarships and funding, which is part of the package of services available to First Nations students this year at Lethbridge College.
Traditional within First Nations culture, family is your community. Here at Lehbridge College, the FNMI student community becomes family.